7 Simple Tips on How to Teach a Rescue Dog to Play with Toys

1. Start with Food-Based Toys

Food is a quick motivator for many rescue dogs even in cases when toys are not. Begin your toy introduction with options that incorporate treats:

Use hollow toys (like Kongs) stuffed with peanut butter, wet food, or treats
Roll treat-dispensing balls that release kibble when moved
Smear a small amount of soft cheese or peanut butter on a rope toy

The food scent will attract your dog to the toy, creating positive first impressions. Gradually, your dog will begin to associate the toy itself with positive experiences, even when food isn’t present.

2. Match Toys to Your Dog’s Personality

Pay attention to what naturally interests your dog and choose toys accordingly:

For dogs that like to chase things, try toys that roll or bounce
For dogs that enjoy chewing, provide appropriate chew toys
For dogs that sniff everything, try toys with interesting textures or scents
For cautious dogs, begin with soft, quiet toys that won’t startle them

Don’t overwhelm your dog with too many options at once. Introduce one or two toys at a time, noting which generate the most interest.

3. Use Movement to Create Interest

Motion activates many dogs’ natural prey drive and play instincts:

Gently wiggle a toy along the ground, mimicking small animal movements
Try the “retreat game” by slowly pulling the toy away from your dog
Drag a rope toy past your dog, pause, then move it again
Toss a soft toy a short distance, even if your dog doesn’t retrieve it

Keep movements slow and non-threatening at first, increasing speed and animation only as your dog shows more confidence.

4. Model Play Behavior

Dogs are observational learners who often learn best by watching:

Play with the toy yourself, showing interest and enjoyment
If possible, let your dog watch another dog who knows how to play with toys
Be animated and vocally excited about the toy
Pretend the toy is interesting to you – your enthusiasm can be contagious

Don’t force the toy on your dog during this modeling phase. Simply demonstrate that toys are fun and allow your dog to join when ready.

5. Keep Sessions Short and Positive

Quality matters more than quantity when teaching toy play:

Limit initial play attempts to 1-2 minutes
End sessions while your dog is still interested, not when bored
Celebrate any interaction with the toy, no matter how brief
Schedule play attempts when your dog is naturally energetic
Always end on a positive note with praise or a treat

Consistent, brief sessions are more effective than occasional long ones. Try incorporating 2-3 short play opportunities throughout your daily routine.

6. Be Patient and Recognize Small Victories

Progress with rescue dogs often comes in tiny increments:

Acknowledge that learning to play might take weeks or months
Celebrate small wins like brief moments of interest in a toy
Document progress to recognize improvement over time
Understand that some days may show regression, which is normal
Recognize that play styles vary – your dog’s version of play may look different from other dogs

Remember that for some rescue dogs, simply picking up or carrying a toy is a significant achievement, even if they don’t engage in active play.

7. Create a Safe Play Environment

Physical and emotional safety are essential for play to develop:

Provide play opportunities in quiet, familiar environments before adding distractions
Ensure plenty of space for movement without obstacles
Start play in areas where your dog already feels secure
Avoid cornering your dog or blocking escape routes during play attempts
Keep your voice and movements calm and predictable
Respect when your dog needs a break

As your dog builds confidence with toys in safe environments, you can gradually introduce play in new locations and situations.

Understanding Your Rescue Dog’s Background

Before diving into toy training, it’s crucial to understand why your rescue dog might be hesitant to play with toys in the first place.

The Impact of Past Experiences

Rescue dogs come from varied backgrounds, each affecting their relationship with play:

Dogs who spent a lot of time in shelters sometimes had restricted access to toys or playmates. Usually, shelter life is more concerned with basic survival than with enrichment pursuits.
Former strays: Dogs living on the streets might not have come across toys as we define them. Their play actions may have evolved toward scavenging or engaging with other street dogs instead of object play.
Dogs from negligent or abusive environments may link portable things with punishment, therefore triggering fear reactions to toys that look like objects used to hurt them.
Dogs from commercial breeding facilities usually live in simple surroundings devoid of toys or appropriate socialization, so they never learnt how to play throughout crucial developmental stages. Puppy mill survivors are such dogs.
Working dogs: Some rescue dogs were former working animals never encouraged to participate in leisure activities since their job role was not related to it.

Signs Your Dog Doesn’t Know How to Play

Recognizing that your dog doesn’t understand play concepts is the first step. Look for these indicators:

Appears confused or fearful when presented with toys
Shows no interest in objects you find engaging
Doesn’t respond to your playful movements or sounds
Walks away when toys are introduced
Stares blankly at thrown balls or moving toys
May show stress signals like lip licking, yawning, or looking away when play is attempted
Never initiates play with humans or other dogs

Assessing Your Dog’s Current Relationship with Play

Before starting any training program, conduct a simple assessment:

Observe your dog’s reaction to different types of toys (soft toys, balls, chew toys)
Note which movements or sounds trigger interest or fear
Document any play behaviors that naturally emerge, even if brief
Watch how your dog interacts with other playful dogs, if possible
Track energy levels and times when your dog seems most receptive to interaction

This information will provide valuable insights into where to begin your training process.

Creating a Foundation for Play

Before introducing toys, establish an environment that makes your dog feel secure and receptive to new experiences.

Building Trust and Security

Trust is fundamental to play, as play requires vulnerability. Build trust through:

Regular feeding, walking, and rest periods help your dog to develop predictability in its life.
Treats, compliments, and little love help to reward calm, confident actions.
Respect your dog’s comfort zones and space; never try to interact with it against will.
Safe zones: Set aside certain spaces where your dog may hide when feeling overburdled.
Patience: Let connection grow organically; for dogs who have had great stress, this may take weeks or months.

Understanding Canine Play Behavior

Natural dog play follows predictable patterns worth understanding:

Play bows: The front-down, rear-up posture that signals “I want to play”
Bouncy movements: Exaggerated, springy motions that indicate playfulness
Self-handicapping: Holding back strength during play with smaller/weaker playmates
Pausing: Taking breaks to ensure play remains mutually enjoyable
Play growling: Vocalizations that sound aggressive but are actually expressions of enjoyment
Toy possession: Holding, carrying, or guarding objects as part of play

Understanding these natural behaviors helps you recognize and encourage budding play behaviors in your rescue dog.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Progress with rescue dogs requires adjusted expectations:

Play Development Stage	Typical Puppy Timeline	Possible Rescue Dog Timeline
Interest in movement	4-8 weeks	1-4 weeks after arrival
Following moving objects	8-12 weeks	2-8 weeks after arrival
Retrieving objects	12-16 weeks	1-6 months after arrival
Interactive play	16-20 weeks	2-12 months after arrival
Initiating play	20-24 weeks	3-18 months after arrival
Complex play behaviors	6-12 months	May take years or never fully develop

Remember that some rescue dogs may never develop the full range of play behaviors seen in dogs raised with proper socialization from birth. Success should be measured by your individual dog’s progress, not by comparison to other dogs.

Selecting the Right Toys for Your Rescue Dog

Choosing appropriate toys is crucial for successful play training with rescue dogs.

Understanding Different Toy Categories

Different toy types serve various purposes in a dog’s play experience:

Comfort toys: Soft, plush toys that provide security and satisfy carrying/nurturing instincts
Chew toys: Durable items that satisfy natural chewing urges and provide dental benefits
Interactive toys: Puzzles and treat-dispensing toys that engage problem-solving skills
Fetch toys: Balls, frisbees, and other items designed for throwing and retrieving
Tug toys: Rope and fabric toys designed for interactive pulling games
Sensory toys: Items with interesting sounds, textures, or scents to engage different senses

Matching Toys to Your Dog’s Personality

Consider your dog’s emerging personality when selecting toys:

Cautious dogs: Start with soft, quiet toys that won’t startle them
Food-motivated dogs: Introduce treat-dispensing toys that reward interaction
High-energy dogs: Durable toys that can withstand vigorous play and provide exercise
Mouthy dogs: Appropriate chew toys that redirect oral fixations constructively
Intelligent breeds: Puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation
Sensitive dogs: Toys with minimal squeakers or unexpected movements

Safety Considerations for Rescue Dogs

Be especially vigilant about toy safety with rescue dogs:

Size appropriateness: Toys should be large enough that they cannot be swallowed
Material safety: Choose non-toxic materials, especially for heavy chewers
Durability: Inspect toys regularly for damage and replace before they become hazardous
Supervision: Always monitor play initially to ensure toys are being used safely
Trigger awareness: Avoid toys that resemble objects from possible trauma (certain sounds, shapes, or textures)
Cleanliness: Regularly wash toys to prevent bacterial growth, especially for outdoor toys

Creating a Starter Toy Collection

Begin with a small, curated selection rather than overwhelming your dog:

One soft comfort toy (small enough to carry but too large to swallow)
One durable chew toy
One treat-dispensing toy
One fetch toy with minimal bounce (for controlled play)
One tug toy made of soft material

Introduce these one at a time over several weeks, observing which generates the most positive response.

Initial Toy Introduction Techniques

The first encounters with toys set the tone for your dog’s future play experiences.

Creating Positive Associations

Before expecting play, help your dog view toys positively:

Scent transfer: Rub a new toy with your hands to transfer your familiar scent
Treat pairing: Place high-value treats on or near toys during initial introductions
Food enhancement: Smear a small amount of peanut butter or squeeze cheese on appropriate toys
Meal association: Place toys near the food bowl during mealtimes (without interfering with eating)
Calm presentation: Introduce toys during relaxed moments, not during excited or anxious states

The Passive Introduction Method

This non-threatening approach works well for fearful dogs:

Place a toy on the floor and ignore it
Allow your dog to investigate at their own pace
Provide quiet praise if they approach or touch the toy
Don’t reach for the toy or try to initiate play immediately
Repeat daily until the dog shows comfort around the toy
Graduate to gentle movement of the toy once fear is gone

Observation Learning Techniques

Dogs learn effectively by watching others:

Demonstration play: Play with the toy yourself, showing interest and enjoyment
Dog modeling: If possible, arrange for your dog to watch a confident, playful dog interact with toys
Parallel play: Play near your dog without requiring participation
Video exposure: Some dogs respond to videos of other dogs playing (though results vary)

Progressing at Your Dog’s Pace

Watch for readiness signals before advancing:

Showing interest in the toy (approaching, sniffing)
Relaxed body language around toys
Brief moments of interaction (pawing, mouthing)
Looking at you while near the toy (seeking approval or engagement)
Carrying or moving the toy, even if briefly

When these signals appear, you can gradually increase interaction with the toy while continuing to monitor comfort levels.

Building Play Drive and Engagement

Once your dog shows basic comfort with toys, you can begin building true play behaviors.

Movement-Based Engagement

Motion activates natural prey drive and play instincts:

Start small: Begin with subtle movements (slight dragging of toy)
Retreat method: Move toys away from your dog rather than toward them
Stop-start technique: Move the toy, then freeze it to trigger chase instincts
Elevation changes: Raise toys slightly above your dog’s eye level to engage attention
Peek-a-boo games: Partially hide toys behind furniture to create curiosity

Using Food Motivation Strategically

Food can bridge the gap between eating and playing:

Toy-treat exchange: Reward interest in toys with treats from your hand
Graduated treat integration: Progress from treats on toys to treats inside toys
Play-eat-play sandwich: Brief toy interaction, treat reward, return to toy
Food chase games: Roll treat-dispensing toys gently to encourage following
Reward progression: Gradually reduce food rewards as play interest increases

Sound and Verbal Encouragement

Appropriate sounds can stimulate play responses:

Excitement mirroring: Use high-pitched, enthusiastic tones when dog shows interest
Consistent play cues: Develop specific words or sounds that signal play time
Praise timing: Immediately verbally mark any playful behavior
Sound sensitivity: Monitor reactions to toy sounds, starting with quieter toys
Voice modulation: Use different voices for different play stages (softer for introduction, more animated for active play)

The Power of Play Sessions

Structure play attempts for success:

Brief duration: Start with 1-2 minute sessions, ending before boredom or anxiety
High-energy timing: Schedule play when your dog is naturally more active
Distraction-free environments: Begin in quiet settings before adding complexity
Success guarantee: Set up scenarios where some engagement is virtually certain
Consistent conclusion: End each session positively, regardless of participation level

Play Session Element	Start Point	Progression	Advanced Goal
Duration	1-2 minutes	Add 30 seconds when consistently engaged	5-10 minutes of focused play
Environment	Single quiet room	Familiar indoor spaces	Various indoor/outdoor locations
Distractions	None	Minimal background activity	Play despite moderate distractions
Toy variety	Single preferred toy	2-3 familiar toys	Selection from toy box
Human involvement	Minimal movement	Active participation	Interactive games

Specific Play Training Techniques

Different play styles require specific training approaches. Progress through these based on your dog’s interests.

Teaching Fetch

Fetch combines multiple skills that may need separate training:

Interest building: Move the toy in exciting ways to generate desire
Chase training: Encourage following a gently rolled or slid toy
Pickup development: Reward any mouth contact with the toy
Return introduction: Start with very short distances, celebrating proximity returns
Hand delivery: Teach approaching your hand with the toy through food rewards
Release training: Develop a reliable “drop it” or “give” command
Distance building: Gradually increase throwing distance as skills improve

For reluctant retrievers, try the “two-toy method” – throw a second toy only after the dog returns with the first.

Mastering Tug Games

Tug provides excellent energy release and bonding when taught properly:

Presentation technique: Hold the tug toy with enough exposed for easy gripping
Engagement invitation: Wiggle the toy at ground level before raising it slightly
Grip reinforcement: Gently pull once the dog grips to encourage holding
Controlled resistance: Provide appropriate opposition without overwhelming
Win opportunities: Allow your dog to “win” the toy periodically
Impulse control: Integrate sits or downs before resuming play
Release training: Teach a reliable cue to let go, using treats if needed

Set clear tug rules: play stops if teeth touch skin, the game begins and ends on your terms, and basic obedience is maintained throughout.

Developing Chew Toy Appropriate Use

Proper chewing satisfies natural urges and reduces destructive behavior:

Texture introduction: Offer various appropriate textures to discover preferences
Duration building: Gradually extend appropriate chewing sessions
Settlement pairing: Associate chew toys with relaxation periods
Location training: Designate specific chew-appropriate areas
Rotation system: Maintain interest by cycling through different chew options
Replacement technique: Consistently swap inappropriate items for approved toys

Enhance chew toys with food smears initially, gradually transitioning to the toy itself providing satisfaction.

Interactive Puzzle Toy Progression

Mental stimulation is especially valuable for rescue dogs:

Transparent puzzles: Start with see-through puzzles where food rewards are visible
Action-reward clarity: Choose toys where the relationship between action and reward is obvious
Difficulty graduation: Systematically increase challenge as skills develop
Demonstration assistance: Show how toys work by manipulating them yourself
Encouragement timing: Offer support when your dog shows persistent interest
Success guarantee: Ensure early puzzles are solvable within 1-2 minutes

Track which puzzle styles your dog prefers (nose work, paw manipulation, or movement-based) and expand your collection accordingly.

Advanced Play Development

Once basic play skills emerge, you can nurture more sophisticated play behaviors.

Building Independent Play Skills

Self-entertainment is an important skill for emotional well-being:

Observed independence: Initially sit nearby while dog explores toys alone
Interest cycling: Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty
Engagement fading: Gradually reduce your involvement in play sessions
Environmental enrichment: Create toy-rich environments that encourage exploration
Reward spontaneous play: Quietly praise self-initiated toy interaction

Creating Play Rituals and Routines

Predictable play opportunities build anticipation and skills:

Toy box introduction: Teach your dog to select toys from a designated container
Play signals: Develop consistent pre-play routines that signal fun is coming
Scheduled sessions: Create regular play appointments throughout the week
Special occasion toys: Reserve certain toys for specific activities or times
Clean-up games: Teach toy gathering as a concluding play activity

Social Play with Other Dogs

Once comfortable with human play, carefully expand to canine playmates:

Observer stage: Allow watching other dogs play without pressure to join
Compatible partner selection: Choose calm, socially fluent dogs as first playmates
Parallel play arrangement: Set up side-by-side play without requiring interaction
Brief supervised sessions: Manage initial interactions to prevent overwhelm
Success priority: End social play on positive notes, even if very brief

Tracking Progress and Celebrating Milestones

Document your journey to recognize incremental improvements:

Keep a play journal noting new behaviors and breakthroughs
Take periodic videos to objectively assess progress
Celebrate first instances of key behaviors (first toy carry, first fetch, first play initiation)
Acknowledge emotional milestones (first play without fear, first visible enjoyment)
Share successes with supportive friends or rescue communities

Addressing Common Challenges

Even with careful training, challenges often arise when teaching rescue dogs to play.

Overcoming Toy Fear or Avoidance

For dogs with persistent toy hesitation:

Ultra-passive approach: Place toys in the environment without any pressure to interact
Systematic desensitization: Very gradually introduce toys at increasing proximity
Counter-conditioning: Pair toys with high-value experiences like special treats
Alternative starting points: Use everyday objects that aren’t traditionally toys
Natural material introduction: Start with sticks or leaves for outdoor play

Managing Resource Guarding Behaviors

Some rescue dogs may guard toys once they recognize their value:

Prevention priority: Avoid confrontational approaches to possessed toys
Multiple toy technique: Provide abundant toys to reduce perceived scarcity
Trading up protocol: Exchange guarded toys for high-value treats
Drop it development: Teach reliable release cues through positive reinforcement
Professional consultation: Seek qualified behavioral help for serious guarding

Handling Overstimulation During Play

Play excitement can sometimes escalate inappropriately:

Arousal monitoring: Watch for signs of excessive excitement (dilated pupils, stiff movements)
Interruption technique: Calmly pause play before arousal becomes unmanageable
Settle training: Teach a reliable calm-down cue for use during play
Session structuring: Incorporate brief breaks into play sessions
Arousal caps: Set upper limits on play intensity and enforce consistently

Addressing Play Regression

Progress with rescue dogs isn’t always linear:

Stress identification: Look for environmental factors triggering regression
Foundation return: Temporarily revert to earlier, successful training stages
Confidence rebuilding: Provide extra support during setback periods
Pattern recognition: Document circumstances surrounding regression episodes
Progress perspective: Maintain long-view of improvement despite setbacks

Specialized Approaches for Difficult Cases

Some rescue dogs require tailored approaches based on specific backgrounds.

Techniques for Previously Abused Dogs

Dogs with abuse history need additional sensitivity:

Body awareness: Be extremely conscious of your body language and movements
Control transfer: Allow the dog to direct interactions whenever possible
Predictability emphasis: Establish consistent play patterns without surprises
Safe space accessibility: Ensure easy retreat options during play attempts
Trauma trigger avoidance: Identify and eliminate play elements that cause fear
Professional guidance: Consider working with a certified behaviorist

Strategies for Senior Rescue Dogs

Older dogs can learn to play but need age-appropriate approaches:

Physical capacity consideration: Choose toys that accommodate potential mobility limitations
Cognitive focus: Emphasize mental stimulation over physical exertion
Success definition adjustment: Celebrate smaller achievements as significant victories
Comfort priority: Ensure play enhances rather than stresses their golden years
Medical consultation: Verify appropriate activity levels with veterinary input
Life experience leverage: Tap into previously developed skills rather than teaching entirely new ones

Working with Breed-Specific Play Tendencies

Channel natural breed inclinations when developing play:

Retriever breeds: Emphasize fetch and carrying games
Terriers: Focus on movement and “hunting” toys
Herding breeds: Incorporate directional and chase elements
Guardian breeds: Introduce structured, rule-based play
Scent hounds: Develop nose-oriented games and scent work
Toy breeds: Capitalize on interactive, social play preferences

Creating Success for Extremely Shy or Shut-Down Dogs

For severely traumatized dogs, modify your approach significantly:

Pressure elimination: Remove all expectations around play
Proximity play: Engage with toys yourself while dog observes from safe distance
Overnight placement: Leave toys in sleeping areas for exploration during private time
Joy modeling: Demonstrate happiness and playfulness in general life
Trust timeline extension: Accept that play may develop months or even years after adoption
Alternative enrichment: Provide non-play forms of mental stimulation while building play capacity

Integrating Play into Daily Life

Once play skills begin developing, weave them into everyday routines.

Creating a Play-Friendly Home Environment

Design your living space to encourage spontaneous play:

Toy accessibility: Maintain open toy bins in common areas
Play zone designation: Create specific areas optimized for different play types
Safety proofing: Ensure play spaces are free from hazards or fragile items
Surface variety: Provide different flooring textures for diverse play experiences
Visual accessibility: Keep toys visible rather than stored away

Using Play for Training and Bonding

Play becomes a powerful tool beyond recreation:

Training integration: Use play as both reward and context for obedience work
Communication enhancement: Develop unique play-based communication systems
Relationship building: Leverage play as bonding time that builds trust
Stress reduction: Deploy appropriate play to help manage anxiety-producing situations
Socialization vehicle: Use controlled play to build positive associations with new experiences

The Role of Play in Rehabilitation

Play serves specific therapeutic functions for rescue dogs:

Confidence building: Successful play experiences create positive self-perception
Trust development: Interactive play builds faith in human intentions
Resilience formation: Play helps dogs learn to manage challenges and frustration
Behavioral flexibility: Game structures teach adaptability and emotional regulation
Joy capacity: Play rebuilds the ability to experience and express happiness

Long-Term Enrichment Through Play

Evolving play keeps minds and bodies healthy throughout life:

Skill expansion: Continuously introduce new play concepts as basics are mastered
Seasonal variation: Adapt play to different weather conditions and environments
Age adaptation: Modify play to accommodate changing physical capabilities
Interest evolution: Honor developing preferences rather than forcing initial choices
Play community: Connect with other dog owners for expanded play opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn’t my rescue dog play with toys?

Past trauma, lack of experience, or fear could all affect rescue dogs’ toy play. They might not feel sufficient safety to participate or know how to use them. Interactive play, good reinforcement, and patience can all help children adjust. Toys gradually introduced can boost playfulness and confidence.

How do I encourage my rescue dog to play?

Encouragement of a rescue dog to play calls both gentle direction and patience. Play interactively starting with soft, non-intimidating toys. Create good associations with treats and compliments. Try several textures and noises to see which you like. They will grow confident and start to appreciate leisure time gradually.

How to teach a dog to play with toys?

Teaching a dog to play with toys requires patience and encouragement. Start with soft, engaging toys and use treats to create positive associations. Gently move the toy to spark interest, and reward any interaction. Try different types of toys to find their preference. Consistent praise and play build confidence.

Is it normal for dogs not to play with toys?

Yes, it’s normal for some dogs not to play with toys. Factors like age, past experiences, or lack of exposure can influence their interest. Rescue dogs may need time to feel safe. Experimenting with different toys, using positive reinforcement, and engaging in interactive play can help encourage their curiosity.

Does my dog have depression?

If your dog is lethargic, withdrawn, losing appetite, or uninterested in activities they once enjoyed, they might have depression. Changes in routine, loss, or stress can trigger it. Provide love, exercise, and mental stimulation. If symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian to rule out health issues and get professional advice.

Conclusion

Teaching a rescue dog to play with toys represents far more than simply providing entertainment—it’s about healing, connection, and building a new life together. Through patient, consistent, and understanding approaches, you’re helping your dog discover joy that may have been previously unknown to them. Remember that every small victory is significant; the first tail wag at a toy, the first playful pounce, or the first time your dog brings you a toy unprompted are all meaningful milestones in their recovery journey.

The techniques in this guide provide a roadmap, but your unique understanding of your dog’s personality and needs will ultimately guide your approach. Celebrate progress at your dog’s pace, adjust expectations as needed, and remember that the goal isn’t perfection but rather growth and happiness. Through play, you’re not just teaching your rescue dog about toys—you’re teaching them about trust, safety, and the possibility of finding joy in their new life with you.

Many rescue dogs who initially showed no interest in toys eventually become playful companions who initiate games and clearly find pleasure in play activities. Your patience and understanding now lay the groundwork for years of shared joy ahead. The journey of teaching your rescue dog to play is ultimately a beautiful metaphor for rescue itself—showing a deserving animal that life can be filled with unexpected happiness, even after difficult beginnings.

External Resources

For additional support in teaching your rescue dog to play with toys, consider these valuable resources:

The Association of Professional Dog Trainers – Find certified trainers specializing in rescue dog rehabilitation
The Shelter Pet Project – Resources specific to rescue dog adjustment and training
Fear Free Happy Homes – Articles and videos about reducing anxiety in rescue pets
Patricia McConnell’s Blog – Science-based insights on dog behavior and play
Kikopup YouTube Channel – Free, positive reinforcement-based training videos
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants – Find a certified animal behavior consultant for complex cases
The Other End of the Leash (Book by Patricia McConnell) – Excellent resource for understanding canine communication
Play With Your Dog (Book by Pat Miller) – Specific guide to developing play skills